In which we discover how much damage elves and curses can do, how even powerful beings can suffer and that mysterious housekeepers often have a hidden agenda. In addition, we learn that if you have a useful magic stone you should always put it in your pyjama pockets whilst you sleep. Just in case.
In which we discover that a Hand of Glory is not always the solution you might think it is, pretending to be asleep is sometimes the cleverest & bravest option and that its surprising what you can achieve with a bowlful of milk
In which we discover that marital problems can be resolved by supernatural means as long as you're not too picky about the outcome, that everyone loves Parkin and that you should never, ever bake when angry, especially when there are dragons about.
In which we discover that trees have a dark side, that they occasionally attack livestock and that they sometimes assist river spirits in sacrifice. We also learn that there can be hope in little things, that Grannies really do know everything and that divining the name of a future spouse can be trickier than you'd think.
In which we discover tricking the devil doesn't always work out well, that sometimes in tales there are more turnips than women and that frankly you can pretty much pickle anything.
In this bonus episode I talk with Emma Kay about her wonderful new book The Dark History of Chocolate.
In which we discover that last names are underrated, there are always worse mothers-in-law, and that horseradish can be a gateway to a better life. We also find that kindness, goodness and a close relationship with the King of Birds are an advantage in life.
n which we discover that its amazing what you can fit under a rosemary bush, that you should never forbid people opening chests without explaining why and that fathers can be very unreasonable.
In which we discover the fascinating truth of how 1001 Nights, brave yet mischievous Sicilian maidens, the patriachy, apple dumpling and Lucrezia Borgia are all connected. This episode also contains revelations about the startling effects of pear varyenky and the surprising divination abilities of pel'meni.
In which we discover that golden apples are never in convenient places, that it takes persistence to overcome the odds and that turning up with a large army is a very effective rescue strategy. We also find yet again that brothers can be jealous, that kindness & courtesy never go amiss and chopping things with swords can have surprising results.
